LIVERPOOL is to get its first daily direct flights to New York, the ECHO can reveal.

The service from Liverpool John Lennon to Newark will start from May 25 next year, the city's 800th birthday.

Glasgow-based airline Flyglobespan will operate the link, with single fares starting from #149, including taxes, while single fares from America to Liverpool will start at $259 (#140).

Liverpool council leader Warren Bradley today described the new link as "fantastic", adding: "This is absolutely brilliant news.

"The American tourist economy is so important to this city as we move forward. We are now getting all the pieces in place."

Flyglobespan has key bases in Glasgow, Edinburgh and Stanstead and flies to a range of European destinations as well as two transatlantic routes starting soon between Glasgow and Orlando and Manchester and Toronto.

It recently announced its first Liverpool links, starting this November, to Tenerife and Prague.

The firm's chairman, Tom Dalrymple, told the ECHO: "I am delighted we can launch this service from Liverpool JLA and give Merseyside people the chance to visit one of the world's most exciting cities at such fantastic prices.

"We also expect it will be well received by the business community on both sides of the Atlantic."

Watch ECHO business editor Neil Hodgson on the city's new US air link - click here>

The flight will offer 22 Business Class seats from #299, including taxes.

Today's announcement follows a lobbying campaign by the airport and business leaders at The Mersey Partnership.

Chairman Roy Morris said the flights would open up new business and tourist trade opportunities for Liverpool.

He said: "Today's announcement marks a significant development and opens up enormous new opportunities for Liverpool and Merseyside."

Watch ECHO business editor Neil Hodgson on the city's new US air link - click here>

FIVE things you must do in New York:>

1. Take a yellow cab from Newark airport to your hotel - the best way to hit Manhattan.

2. Visit the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island by ferry.

3. Enjoy a meal in Little Italy and Chinatown.

4. Visit Central park to see Strawberry Fields, the tribute to John Lennon near his home.